subalpine

American  

[suhb-al-pahyn, -pin] / sʌbˈæl paɪn, -pɪn /

adjective

1. pertaining to the regions at the foot of the Alps.

2. Botany. growing on mountains below the limit of tree growth, and above the foothill, or montane, zone.

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subalpine British  

/ sʌbˈælpaɪn /

adjective

1. situated in or relating to the regions at the foot of mountains

2. (of plants) growing below the treeline in mountainous regions

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Etymology

Origin of subalpine

First recorded in 1650–60; sub- + alpine

Example Sentences

Mountain goats are tied to rugged alpine and subalpine habitats.

From Seattle Times

The research concluded 41% of the study area's subalpine fir biomass is climatically exposed to some level of damage.

From Science Daily

Alpine and subalpine Sphagnum peatlands are endangered in Australia and listed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, due to their restricted geographic distribution, biodiversity declines, and challenges in their restoration and regeneration.

From Science Daily

Looking ahead, the study concluded that a modest increase in fire activity wouldn't be uncharacteristic for the Northern Rockies subalpine ecosystems -- yet.

From Science Daily

Larch season differs in Washington from year to year, but generally, the first couple of weeks in October feature peak subalpine larch colors, while western larches change later.

From Seattle Times